Google Gets Friendlier Every Day

Well, at least more social.  Further evidence that Google is making search more social comes in the form of their new “plus-one” button, which according to Google is short-hand for telling your social connections, “Hey, this is pretty cool! Or you should check this out”

“When someone recommends something, that’s a pretty good indicator of quality,” said Matt Cutts, Google’s principle engineer for search. “We are strongly looking at using this in our rankings.”

The new button allows you to share your preferences with your connections in Gchat, Gmail, Google Reader, Google Buzz and in the not too distant future, Twitter, making search an even more important partner with social media.

According to Google, currently there are no plans to bring Facebook into the “plus-one” system.

“In addition to ‘social search’ and ‘real time search’, the ‘Plus One’ feature is one more way Google is putting their money where their mouth is in terms of how important Social Authority is related to search engine optimization and positioning,” said Social Media Strategist, Caroline Melberg.  “It’s disappointing that Facebook “Likes” are not included yet, as Facebook is still the 800 pound gorilla in the social media world.”

Before you can +1 in searches, you will first need a Google profile.  Profiles allow people to see who has made the recommendation.  Your profile is visible to anyone who has your email address.

Are you ready to +1 it? Click here to give it a try.

Published on: June 20, 2011